Exeter Chiefs boss Rob Baxter hails Stuart Lancaster’s England impact

Stuart Lancaster led England to four victories in their Six Nations campaign Photo: TSR

Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter believes the key to Stuart Lancaster’s success has been restoring the players’ pride in representing England.

Lancaster took over as interim coach in March 2012 after Martin Johnson stood down from his role as England boss following a disastrous World Cup campaign blighted by off-field controversies.

The 42-year-old led England to four victories in their Six Nations campaign earlier this year, with the Red Rose only losing to eventual Grand Slam champions Wales.

Baxter, who will oversee Exeter’s first campaign in the Heineken Cup this season, is confident Lancaster is making great strides in fostering a “club spirit” in the England camp, which the Chiefs boss says is crucial to the success of the national team.